Although March is still cold throughout much of Japan and you may even see some snow, it marks the true beginning of spring. Two major holidays, Hinamatsuri and Higan, make it a festive time well worth celebrating—whatever the weather may be.
Virtual Travel with Umami: Shimane
Until we can all travel again, indulge in the deep history and food culture of Japan's beautiful Shimane prefecture virtually.
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Culture, Food Traditions, Seasonal, Spring
12 Months of Japanese Holidays: April, It’s All about Cherry Blossoms
Each spring, the Japanese eagerly anticipate hanami. Literally translated as “looking at flowers,” hanami celebrates the delicate pink flowers' fleeting beauty. People of all sects picnic under the blooming trees, enjoying Japanese drinks and food.
Once one of the five annual holidays held in Japan's imperial court, Tango no Sekku happens annually on May 5, the fifth day of the fifth month. In modern times, it is known as Children’s Day, or Kodomo no hi.
In the month of April, both asparagus and lettuce are in season and fresh, ideal for cooking flavorful and healthy meals. Try these delicious and healthy Japanese dishes using fresh April vegetables.
Cooking Japanese food using vegetables that are in season results in fresh, vibrant, delicious dishes. In the month of May, you can use celery and young potatoes in a number of tasty Japanese dishes.
Are you seeking a refreshing Japanese beverage to enjoy during the spring and summer? Japan has many great options, from traditional sake to sweet plum wine. These five alcoholic Japanese drinks offer a little bit of something for everyone.
Try French Japanese fusion in Montreal and the best sushi outside of Japan in Vancouver with this World Travel Series Spring Edition.
Japanese cuisine is well known for its use of fresh vegetables in season. In the month of March, both spring cabbage and broccoli are widely used in a number of Japanese dishes that are easy to make and pack a ton of flavor and health benefits.
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Quick & Easy Recipes
Ready for the ultimate easy to make nutrition-packed vegetarian meal yet? Then let's make this Shio Kombu tofu salad! This heart-healthy and flavorful salad is a versatile dish that can be whipped up in a matter of minutes.
The sesame dressing adds to the tofu and asparagus salad! Make a lot of the dressing so you can stock it for multiple uses.
Quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. This recipe for tofu teriyaki sandwiches is both vegetarian and loaded with Umami. Learn how to do it right with our easy-to-follow recipe and all of our cooking tips here.
Invite your friends over for some authentic Japanese isobe yaki, a sweet and savory snack that combines mochi with seaweed and soy sauce. Everyone will be delighted by your mastery of this authentic Japanese recipe and easy-to-follow video.
These large meatballs contain a happy surprise inside! Just make sure to bite into them slowly...
Want to make an easy breakfast/lunch? Try the pizza toast but with miso for a Japanese taste.
Replace cheese with tofu, and turn it into Japanese-style caprese.
Make a delicious sashimi tuna rice bowl from scratch using an umami-rich marinade to really bring out the flavor with our recipe. This special donburi recipe makes a great lunch or hot weather dinner and will impress friends and family.
Learn how to make Ogura toast, a Japanese breakfast recipe that is also healthy. Adzuki bean paste is smothered on freshly toasted bread for a sweet and creamy taste that will jump-start your day the right way.
Eat healthy with this quick fried rice recipe! Perfect if you want to eat something healthy but are in a rush.
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Dorayaki is a perfect snack for all ages. Red bean paste is delicious, but you can substitute the fillings with fresh cream, ice cream, or any cream you prefer!
With these meal kits, you can now easily make three popular Japanese dishes in no time. They are all vegetarian-friendly! Pick up your favorite produce items to make a Japanese meal at home.
